When Second-Place Feels Like First

Just when things look to be getting tougher with Toronto going into the second lockdown of 2020, I am overjoyed with the news that I came second place in the “Best local Etsy Crafter” category in the Reader’s Choice Awards with Now Magazine.  

This is NOW Magazine’s (“NOW”)  25th consecutive year of the awards. If you haven’t been following my posts, you might be wondering what is The Readers Choice Awards? Here is an extract from Media Central Corporation on the magazine awards and how it is benefiting small businesses, particularly during the pandemic. 

“NOW’s annual Readers’ Choice is a chance for readers to share what they love about Toronto – from restaurants and retail stores to drag performers, parks and politicians. With the negative impact of COVID-19 on small and local businesses, this issue is more important than ever, as it draws attention to the city’s best loved businesses and people. The voting process is not only great exposure for the winners and runner-ups, but the nomination and polling periods give all local people, places and businesses increased visibility across the millions of readers who rely on NOW in print and online.”

According to a survey by Canadian Federation of Independent Business,  “One in seven Canadian businesses may not survive the COVID-19 pandemic.”  Media Central Corporation states, “NOW recognizes the impact of the pandemic on its city’s local businesses, big and small, and knows that this year’s awards bring much needed attention to ones that are excelling in their specialty.”

Source: https://www.mediacentralcorp.com/now-magazine-launches-25th-annual-readers-choice-edition/

I am so proud to stand alongside my fellow makers and entrepreneurs who are navigating what it means to be a small business owner in this pandemic. Although I did not come first in my category, second place still feels like a BIG WIN for 2020. Big thank you to everyone who voted for me! Click this link to check out other winners in different categories. https://nowtoronto.com/rc#/gallery/?group=358977 

Winners in my category included @Sudsatorium (First place) and @CitchenCandleCo (Third place). Big shout-out to the owner of @CitchenCandleCo; she is also founder of Team Toronto Etsy Sellers and the reason I was nominated for the awards in the first place! 

Until next time, I hope you continue to support small businesses. Remember to shop local before resorting to multi-billion dollar industries like Amazon and Walmart because right now, Toronto needs you more. 

Sincerely,

Ave Abellanosa
Owner and Artist
www.avemariabell.com